Certain Mobile Electronic Devices; Inv. No. 337-TA-1516

The Commission instituted a Section 337 investigation based on Maxell, Ltd.'s complaint alleging that Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. and Samsung Electronics America, Inc. import and sell Samsung-branded smartphones and tablets that infringe six asserted U.S. patents. The investigation covers specified claims of U.S. Patent Nos. 10,812,646; 12,513,408; 12,061,760; 12,418,692; 12,185,211; and 12,647,935, with Maxell seeking a limited exclusion order and cease and desist orders. The investigation targets Samsung smartphones and tablets, a high-volume consumer electronics category with significant U.S. market impact. Because Maxell seeks exclusionary relief at the ITC, an adverse finding could create import restrictions or settlement pressure affecting major mobile device supply chains and sales. The accused products are defined as smartphones and tablets branded and sold by Samsung. Respondents are Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. of Korea and Samsung Electronics America, Inc. of New Jersey. The Office of Unfair Import Investigations will not participate, and respondents must answer within 20 days of service absent good cause for extension.